Even with a surveyor on board, costs almost inevitably rise and the main reason for this – changes of plan. What might seem like a small change to the layout of your home could add thousands to the budget, so thorough planning of every single element of a property is essential. And once you’ve costed a decision it is unwise to change plans unless you’re willing to stump up a princely sum for the privilege.
The golden rule is to allow a contingency in your budget of 15-20%, rather than the 10% or less often recommended. Not only will this allow you some room for manouvre when it comes to changes of heart, but it will also mean that, come the end of your tightly controlled, impeccably costed project you should have lots of extra money left over for all those treats you didn't think you'd ever be able to afford!
